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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a tiny, fluffy member of the Spitz family. According to AKC standards,
the Pom is the most diminutive of the northern breeds. Some in this breed look like
foxes with the wedge-shaped head and pointed ears. The eyes are almond-shaped and
have an intelligent expression. The nose is dark and the teeth should meet in a
scissor-like bite. There is an abundant mane around the neck and chest area. The
Pom's double coat is its pride and glory and usually comes in solid colors and any
solid color is allowed. Sometimes the coat is white with colored markings, black
and tan, wolf or orange sable. The undercoat is fluffy and the outer coat is long,
perfectly straight and shiny. The full, distinctive tail is plumed and carried over
the back.
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Temperament
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This tiny dog is beautiful, diminutive in size, easy to care for and is a favorite
for the elderly. Poms have the alert, active and curious character of their larger
brethren, and are useful alarm dogs and fine, accurate obedience dogs. The can sometimes
be "full of themselves", but they love to "strut their stuff" in a show ring or
on a neighborhood walk. They are lively, intelligent, very loyal to their owner,
willful and bold. They usually get along with other household pets. Their resounding
bark makes them excellent watchdogs. Teach them early to only bark a few times to
announce a visitor and to stop once the door is answered. They are good at learning
tricks but need a firm hand. They must know that the owner is boss. They are good
around older children as the playful nature of younger children may make them nervous
and a bit snappish.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 7-12" ; Weight: 3-7 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Pom is prone to slipped stifle, dislocated patella, heart and skin problems
and eye infections. This breed is prone to early tooth loss so feed them dry food
to keep the teeth and gums healthy. Be sure your Vet checks their teeth often. They
often need a cesarean section for deliveries and they tend to develop bald spots
as they age.
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Living Conditions
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Poms can live fine in an apartment as they are very active indoors. They can tend
to overheat in hot weather.
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Exercise
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Poms will get plenty of exercise if they have a small yard to run around in. They
enjoy long walks.
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Life Expectancy
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About 15 years
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Grooming
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This breed requires a lot of grooming. It needs regular brushing in order for the
coat to have the lifted, stand-out look. Part the coat, brush the undercoat forward
and let it fall back naturally. Dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is a constant
shedder and is sensitive to heat.
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Origin
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The origins of this breed hail from European herding spitz dogs. When the first
specimens were brought to England from the German province of Pomerania, they were
larger, usually white and less profusely coated than our modern specimens. Litters
often included smaller pups and soon the smaller species was preferred. Queen Victoria
fell in love with the tiny ball of fluff, bringing it home with her in 1888. She
exhibited a larger Pom at British shows. England fell in love with this breed and
breeders systematically bred them for smaller and smaller size, and more and more
coat. The Pomeranian is recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Toy, UKC Companion Dog
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